United States Culinary Tourism Market By Activity (Food Festivals, Cooking Classes, Culinary Trails, Restaurants, Others), By Booking Mode (Direct Travel, Tour Operators, Online Travel Agencies), By Tourist Type (Existential, Experimental, Diversionary, Recreational), By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The United States Culinary Tourism Market was valued at USD 2.69 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 7.72 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 19.27% during the forecast period. The increasing desire for unique and authentic food experiences as part of cultural exploration is driving the demand for culinary tourism. Travelers are eager to immerse themselves in local cuisines, with food-related activities such as food festivals, cooking classes, and visits to farms or vineyards becoming increasingly popular. The U.S. offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, reflecting its multicultural heritage, making it a top destination for food lovers. According to the 2023 Global Travel Trends Report by American Express Travel, food plays a key role in travel experiences, with many travelers planning vacations around culinary activities, such as dining at renowned restaurants or taking cooking classes. Approximately 81% of respondents view exploring local foods and cuisines as the highlight of their travels. Additionally, 72% expressed a desire to visit international destinations to experience diverse culinary offerings, and around 37% of travelers specifically plan trips to visit particular restaurants.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Interest in Authentic Culinary Experiences

One of the primary drivers of the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the growing interest in authentic and unique culinary experiences. Travelers are increasingly seeking more than just typical tourist attractions; they want to immerse themselves in the local culture, especially through food. Food has become a central part of a destination's identity, and many tourists are eager to explore regional dishes, local ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques that reflect the heritage and history of the area. This trend is fueled by the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and food-centric shows on streaming services, where food culture and culinary tourism have gained mainstream attention. Many travelers now prioritize food-related activities such as cooking classes, food tours, wine tasting, and visits to local markets. For example, destinations like New Orleans are popular for their Creole cuisine, while Napa Valley in California attracts tourists for its renowned wine tasting experiences. Travelers are eager to learn how food is prepared, meet local chefs, and enjoy meals prepared from locally sourced ingredients, contributing to the rapid growth of culinary tourism in the United States. As more people seek authentic experiences, destinations across the U.S. are investing in food festivals, farmer’s markets, and restaurant weeks to meet demand.

Growth of Food Festivals and Culinary Events

Another major driver of the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the growth of food festivals and culinary events that draw visitors from all over the country and internationally. Food festivals, wine events, and cooking competitions offer tourists the opportunity to experience a region's best culinary offerings all in one location. Events such as the James Beard Foundation Awards, South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and the Napa Valley Wine Auction showcase the best of American cuisine and attract large crowds of food enthusiasts, chefs, and tourists. Food festivals provide more than just a meal—they offer a chance to experience food culture in a celebratory setting, with activities like live cooking demonstrations, tastings, chef interactions, and educational panels. For example, the Oregon Truffle Festival draws visitors from around the world to taste one of the most sought-after culinary delicacies, the truffle. Similarly, festivals like the Gilroy Garlic Festival celebrate regional specialties, creating opportunities for tourists to connect with the local food scene in a meaningful way. The popularity of food festivals has also grown due to the rise of experiential travel, where tourists look to gain hands-on experiences and knowledge while traveling. Culinary festivals allow them to enjoy both food and entertainment in a single, immersive event.

Increased Focus on Wellness and Sustainable Dining

The increasing focus on health, wellness, and sustainability has emerged as a powerful driver in the United States Culinary Tourism Market. Many modern travelers are looking for dining experiences that align with their values, seeking out organic, locally sourced, and sustainably produced food. This growing trend is reshaping how culinary tourism operates by encouraging destinations and chefs to focus on health-conscious meals and eco-friendly practices. Farm-to-table dining, which emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is a key aspect of this trend. More restaurants and culinary destinations are offering farm-to-table experiences, where visitors can tour local farms, participate in food harvesting, and then enjoy meals made from the produce they've collected. These experiences often emphasize sustainability and environmental consciousness, appealing to travelers who want to ensure that their culinary tourism choices align with ethical consumption and ecological preservation. Additionally, wellness-focused culinary tourism has gained traction, with many tourists seeking experiences that integrate healthy food choices with activities like yoga retreats, hiking, and meditation.  The emphasis on sustainability and wellness is also prompting innovations such as zero-waste dining, plant-based food tours, and restaurants committed to reducing their carbon footprint. 

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Key Market Challenges

Rising Costs and Economic Uncertainty

One of the key challenges facing the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the rising costs associated with food and travel, particularly in light of economic uncertainty. The cost of food production, labor, and transportation has been increasing, which has translated into higher prices for both dining experiences and travel. Culinary tourism often involves premium experiences, such as fine dining, food festivals, and exclusive chef-led tours, which can be expensive. These rising costs can make it difficult for some travelers to afford such experiences, especially during economic downturns or periods of inflation. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, which still have lingering effects on food prices and availability. While demand for culinary tourism is growing, not all travelers can afford to indulge in expensive dining experiences or travel to food-centric destinations. High travel costs, such as flights, accommodations, and local transportation, further exacerbate this issue.

Changing Consumer Preferences and Dietary Restrictions

A major challenge in the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the evolving and diverse consumer preferences, particularly regarding dietary restrictions and the demand for personalized culinary experiences. As more consumers adopt plant-based diets, gluten-free lifestyles, or other dietary preferences, culinary tourism businesses must adapt to meet these growing demands. Tourists increasingly seek restaurants, food tours, and festivals that cater to specific dietary needs, such as vegan, keto, gluten-free, or allergen-free options. This requires chefs, restaurant owners, and tour operators to not only innovate with their menu offerings but also invest in specialized ingredients, training, and staff to accommodate these preferences. Additionally, health-conscious travelers are becoming more selective about the food they consume. There is a growing trend toward plant-based and sustainable dining experiences, and culinary tourism businesses are expected to offer more than just traditional options. Restaurants that do not meet these expectations may lose out on attracting a wider audience, particularly those from younger generations who prioritize ethical eating practices. The demand for "clean eating" and low-impact food options is pushing destinations to rethink how they present food tourism experiences.

Key Market Trends

Rise of Farm-to-Table and Sustainable Culinary Experiences

One major trend shaping the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the increasing demand for farm-to-table and sustainable dining experiences. Modern travelers are becoming highly conscious of where their food comes from and how it is produced. They seek authentic culinary adventures that connect them to local farmers, producers, and the natural environment. This has led to the popularity of tours that include visits to organic farms, farmer’s markets, vineyard tours, and even foraging expeditions. Travelers are eager to learn about local food systems, sustainable agricultural practices, and ethical sourcing. Restaurants and culinary destinations are responding by emphasizing transparency, highlighting locally sourced ingredients, and crafting seasonal menus that reflect the regional bounty. This trend also ties closely with the growing interest in health and wellness, as visitors prefer meals made with fresh, minimally processed ingredients. Culinary tourism providers that emphasize environmental stewardship and sustainability find strong appeal among eco-conscious tourists, particularly Millennials and Gen Z consumers. Events like farm dinners, where guests enjoy meals outdoors directly on the farm, have become increasingly popular.

Increased Demand for Culinary Education and Hands-on Experiences

Another significant trend in the United States Culinary Tourism Market is the growing desire for immersive, hands-on culinary experiences. Rather than just dining at a famous restaurant, travelers increasingly want to participate in the food-making process. Cooking classes, food workshops, baking courses, mixology sessions, and wine-pairing classes have surged in popularity. Tourists want to leave a destination not only with memories but also with new skills and a deeper understanding of local culinary traditions. Many culinary tourism operators have started offering customized experiences where guests can learn how to prepare regional specialties, such as making pasta in Italy or crafting authentic barbecue in the American South. In the United States, cities like New Orleans, Charleston, and Portland are becoming hubs for food enthusiasts looking for experiential learning opportunities. Culinary schools, chefs, and local food artisans often collaborate with tourism agencies to create specialized programs for visitors. These experiences appeal particularly to younger travelers, who value unique and sharable moments over traditional sightseeing. The trend also reflects a broader societal shift toward experiential consumption, where people prefer investing in activities that enrich their lives rather than purchasing material goods.

Popularity of Food and Drink Festivals

Food and drink festivals have become a cornerstone of the United States Culinary Tourism Market, reflecting a major trend of experiential gathering centered around cuisine. These festivals allow travelers to sample a wide range of local, regional, and international dishes all in one place, often accompanied by music, cultural performances, and chef demonstrations. Events such as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Florida, the Aspen Food & Wine Classic in Colorado, and the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience attract thousands of food lovers every year. These festivals serve as a platform for destinations to showcase their culinary identity, promote local chefs, and celebrate regional food traditions. They also provide opportunities for emerging food trends, such as plant-based cuisine, craft brewing, artisanal spirits, and fusion foods, to reach a wider audience. Many tourists now plan their vacations around major culinary festivals, seeing them as a way to experience the best a city or region has to offer in a concentrated format. The social aspect of these festivals also contributes to their appeal, offering a communal atmosphere where food enthusiasts can bond over shared interests. With the rise of social media, food festivals have become even more popular, as attendees are eager to share photos and experiences online. This trend is expected to grow further as destinations continue to invest in signature culinary events to attract domestic and international visitors seeking vibrant, food-centered experiences.

 Segmental Insights

Activity Insights

Food festivals have emerged as the largest category in the United States Culinary Tourism Market, capturing significant attention from both domestic and international travelers. These festivals offer a unique opportunity for tourists to explore a diverse range of local, regional, and international cuisines in one location, creating immersive and memorable culinary experiences. Cities across the United States have capitalized on the popularity of food festivals to promote their unique gastronomic identities, from seafood festivals on the coasts to barbecue competitions in the South and wine and cheese events in Napa Valley. Food festivals are appealing because they combine culinary exploration with entertainment, live music, cultural performances, and interactive activities like cooking demonstrations and tastings. Visitors are often able to meet renowned chefs, discover new food trends, and sample gourmet dishes that reflect the local heritage and culinary innovation. The inclusive, social atmosphere of these festivals enhances the travel experience, making them highly attractive to food lovers and casual tourists alike. Moreover, food festivals serve as powerful marketing tools for destinations, drawing media attention and boosting local economies. As more travelers seek experiences centered around food and culture, the demand for dynamic and large-scale food events continues to grow, solidifying food festivals as a cornerstone of the culinary tourism market in the United States. 

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Regional Insights

The South region has emerged as the leading segment in the United States Culinary Tourism Market, driven by its rich culinary heritage, diverse food traditions, and strong cultural identity. States like Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina offer a wide variety of iconic dishes such as gumbo, barbecue, fried chicken, and shrimp and grits, which attract both domestic and international food tourists. The region’s deep-rooted history in blending African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences has resulted in unique flavors and cooking techniques that are highly sought after by culinary travelers. In addition to its famous dishes, the South is known for its hospitality and vibrant food culture, which includes food festivals, farmers' markets, and culinary tours that celebrate local ingredients and traditions. Cities like New Orleans, Charleston, and Austin have become top culinary destinations, offering a mix of street food, fine dining, and innovative farm-to-table experiences. The storytelling aspect of Southern food where each dish often carries historical and cultural significance also enhances the appeal for tourists looking for authentic and meaningful experiences. As culinary tourism continues to grow, the South’s rich and evolving food scene positions it as a dominant force in the United States market.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Traveling Spoon expanded its offerings by introducing new culinary experiences across the United States and internationally. These experiences feature cooking classes, market tours, and opportunities to dine with local families, all designed to give travelers a richer understanding of local food cultures. The expansion includes new destinations within the U.S. as well as several international locations, enabling travelers to discover a wide range of cuisines and culinary traditions in authentic and memorable settings.

Key Market Players

• Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC
• Greaves Travel Ltd
• Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
• Classic Journeys, LLC
• The FTC4Lobe Group
• The Travel Corporation
• Gourmet on Tour
• Culinary Adventures International
• Culinary Tours
• Butterfield & Robinson Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the United States Culinary Tourism Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Activity:

o   Food Festivals

o   Cooking Classes

o   Culinary Trails

o   Restaurants

o   Others

• United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Booking Mode:

o   Direct Travel

o   Tour Operators

o   Online Travel Agencies

• United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Tourist Type:

o   Existential

o   Experimental

o   Diversionary

o   Recreational

• United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Region:

o   South

o   West

o   Midwest

o   Northeast

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the United States Culinary Tourism Market.

Available Customizations:

United States Culinary Tourism Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).